TRANSITION PLANNING FOR

INDIVIDUALS WITH EPILEPSY

Adrienne ArkontakyManaging Partner

The Cuddy Law Firm,P.C.50 Main Street

White Plains, New York914-984-2740

www.cuddylawfirm.com

Planning For Adulthood• Families need to plan for adulthood prior to the

individual reaching the age of emancipation.

• The age of emancipation is generally 18 and in some cases financial emancipation occurs at age 21.

• Important Questions- what are the individual’s post secondary goals after high school?

• What are the challenges the individual will face after high school?

• What supports need to be put in place to allow the individual to succeed?

Important Laws to Consider

• The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004.

• State Education Laws that require school districts to assist with transition planning as early as age 15.

• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

• Americans with Disabilities Act.

Timeline for PlanningImmediately upon diagnosis or earlier-Estate

Planning and assessment of necessary support services.

Age 12-Assess post secondary education goals.

Age 15-Request school district to assist with evaluations focused on transition needs.

Age 18-Execute advance directives and/or explore guardianship.

Age 18-Apply for SSA benefits and other necessary government supports.

Important Information for Developing a Transition

IEPThe student’s present levels of performance

Measurable post secondary goals

Necessary curriculum to achieve goals

Coordinated set of activities based on the student’s individualized needs.

Involve agencies such as ACESS-VR and/or OPWDD in planning process.

Ask for a transition coordinator.

Other Important StepsMake sure transition goals are included in

Individualized Education Plan and/or Section 504 plan.

Encourage self advocacy and seek out supports.

Include the student/individual in the transition plan.

Develop a Team of Advocates

The School District

Health Care Professionals

Evaluators

Consultants

Family members

THE INDIVIDUAL WITH A DISABILITY

Life Planning IssuesAssess the need for guardianship OR

Advance directives-Power of Attorney, Health Care Proxy and HIPAA release.

Need for Special Needs Trust and estate planning.

Letter of Intent.

Funding a Life Plan.

Other Important Steps To Take

Apply for Adult services.

Explore programs that embrace the “unique ability” of the individual.

Promote self advocacy.

Insure health insurance coverage.

Explore housing options.

ConclusionPlan early!

Gather information and involve the individual in the planning process!

Network with other families!

“Pass The Torch.”Adrienne Arkontaky-aarkontaky@cuddylawfirm.com

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